November 3, 2005
For immediate release

Community Blood Centers of South Florida (CBCSF), the supplier of 75% of the blood used for medical care in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and Monroe counties is in immediate need of blood donors.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Wilma, emergency blood supplies were provided to hospital and medical facilities in the tri-county area, as well as Monroe County. According to CBCSF President, Dr. Charles Rouault, ?Medical care in South Florida is returning to normal, and that means we have to have an adequate blood supply. We could not draw donors for a week after the storm, creating a disruption in the normal supply, but we are fully operational again and I?m sure that as in the past, the South Florida community will respond to the needs of patients by starting to donate regularly again.?

CBCSF has nearly 40 blood mobiles traveling to local businesses, shopping centers and places of worship in Dade, Broward, Palm Beach and the Keys, seven days a week. There are also 17 branches located from Key West to Palm Beach Gardens, where donors can walk in or give by appointment in a pleasant environment equipped with televisions, movies and snacks. CBCSF also offers lunch to every platelet donor who donates between 11:00am and 2:00pm weekdays.

Adds Rouault, ?Eleven of our 17 branches are operating on a set schedule this week, and we will be returning to normal business operations on Monday, November 7, thanks to the efforts of FPL, BellSouth, and all of the other emergency personnel contributing to the recovery effort.?

South Florida residents have always responded to the blood needs of their fellow citizens, and word needs to get out that the time to donate is now. Special needs include platelets for cancer and surgical patients, and Type O (positive or negative) blood, largely used for pediatric transfusions.

To schedule a drive at a place of business or worship, for the most current list of open branches and hours or to donate by appointment, please call 800-357-4483 or visit www.cbcsf.org .